Commission concerned about human rights of people facing eviction in Glasgow

Statement on human rights of people facing eviction from their homes in Glasgow

Commenting today on the continuing situation in Glasgow where people seeking asylum are facing eviction from their homes, Judith Robertson, Chair of the Scottish Human Rights Commission, said:

“The human rights of refugees and people seeking asylum must be protected by the Home Office and respected by private housing provider Serco. No person, especially people already in precarious and vulnerable situations, should be deliberately left destitute and homeless.

“The Commission is deeply concerned about the human rights of people seeking asylum and those granted refugee status who are facing eviction from their homes in Glasgow. Both the UK Government and the private firm, Serco, have human rights obligations and responsibilities to these groups.  In particular, the UK Government has an obligation to ensure rights are upheld not only in law and policy, but through relevant procurement and contractual arrangements.

“Everyone has a right to a private and family life, to be free from inhuman or degrading treatment and, in terms of international law, a right to adequate housing. Locking people out of their homes, leaving them destitute and vulnerable on our streets, is a clear violation of these human rights responsibilities.

“The Commission calls on all parties to co-operate to ensure the human rights of refugees and people seeking asylum are respected and they are treated with the dignity to which they are entitled.”

ENDS